John Moncure Daniel

The young John discovered a talent for journalism and moved south within his native state to Richmond, Virginia.

Daniel, as an editor aligned with the Democratic Party, was appointed in 1853 by the administration of President Franklin Pierce as the United States diplomat to the Kingdom of Sardinia.

Daniel's editorials were less than enthusiastic about Davis from almost the start of his challenged presidency and were even more hostile as the war continued.

[3] John Daniel's passionate advocacy has helped maintain the historical status and legacy of Confederate generals who might otherwise not have been remembered so well, such as Joseph E. Johnston.

Daniel's status and hostility to the administration grew to the point that he came to be seen by some as an informal leader of the Confederate opposition.

[4] It was true that the Confederate treasury was empty of gold and silver, but Elmore succeeded in putting some lead into Daniel's leg.